XL EagleSingle-Award vs Multiple-Award (Single-Award vs Multiple-Award Contract)
Single-Award vs Multiple-Award stands for Single-Award vs Multiple-Award Contract. A single-award IDIQ goes to one contractor, who then receives every order issued under it. A multiple-award IDIQ goes to several contractors at once, and each order is competed among them.
Under multiple-award contracts, each holder must get a fair opportunity to be considered for orders, with some exceptions like urgency. The government generally prefers multiple awards because it keeps prices competitive for the life of the contract.
Why it matters to a small contractor
Getting on a multiple-award contract is only step one; you still have to win orders. A single award means steady work but is rarer and often comes with heavier expectations.
Example
An agency awards a cleaning IDIQ to five companies. Each month it sends a task order request to all five. Company C wins two of the first ten orders.
Single-Award vs Multiple-Award: common questions
What is fair opportunity?
It is the rule that every holder on a multiple-award contract gets a chance to compete for each order, unless a listed exception applies.
Which one is better for a small business?
Multiple-award contracts are more common and easier to win a seat on. Single awards give more certainty but are harder to win.
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